Frequently there's one member of the family that's a bit of a renegade. For us it is this wine. The climate of Monterey generally does not conform to that of prime Zinfandel areas, but there are a few warm spots with which to have fun. Tucked back in the steamy Arroyo Seco river canyon south of the Santa Lucia Highlands appellation, Anne Hougham's organically farmed Mesa del Sol Vineyard is a haven for heat-loving varietals. The microclimate at Mesa del Sol is night and day to Rosella's Vineyard, with complete wind protection and sandy gravelly soil above the Arroyo Seco gorge. The vines are stressed, and even with double cordons, they only produced about 3 tons/acre.
The 2006 RTW is composed of 63% Syrah, 27% Zinfandel, and 10% Sangiovese. Both the organically grown Zinfandel and Sangiovese fruit for this bottling are sourced form the Mesa del Sol Vineyard in Arroyo Seco. The Syrah portion is split between promising, but young, Syrah vines planted for us at Paraiso Vineyard and those from Mesa del Sol. The individual lots were first aged for 11 months in 10% new French oak barrels and an assortment of other seasoned barrels. The blend was assembled just before the 2007 harvest, and then aged for an additional 4 months.
The aromas and flavors of the 2006 RTW present a vibrant mix of red and black fruits. Suggestions of red currents blueberries and caramel are followed by flavors of spiced plum and licorice. This is a very expressive and full wine, yet a moderate amount of balancing acidity has been maintained on the finish in order to accentuate brightness and honor food pairing. Overall, the texture is fairly rounded, with gentle tannins and a 'fat', fruity middle palate.
This is meant to be a fun wine that stays a step outside of our main focus. It is deliberately made in a bright and fruity style that is engaging and fun to drink. Flexible enough to partner with all sorts of casual meals; it is priced accordingly!